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03 May Chalet Hibou Eleven Experience

As we made our way through the windy Alpine roads of La Miroui we finally arrived at Chalet Hibou and were greeted by the welcoming smiles of Valentine and Tommy who would be our chalet hosts for the next four days.

Our bags were whisked away, and we were taken up to the living space which boasted almost panoramic views of the valleys and beyond. I was struck by how warm and homely the décor felt and yet remained luxurious and indulgent. As we sipped on champagne and made our introductions we took in the views and incredible fragrance of Japanese Quince candles which we were informed was the signature scent of Eleven.

Once we had had a familiarisation of the chalet itself, we were taken to our rooms where our bags had been safely stowed away and told we had 15 minutes to freshen up before a drink at the “après ski bar” where we would meet our guides and have our boot and ski fitting.

I took in the beautifully designed bedroom and bathroom which was full of gorgeous Aesop essentials and a steam shower which I had every intention of taking advantage over the next couple of days.

I joined my fellow housemates for a quick Negroni and chat in the bar which felt and looked exactly like some of the best mountain bars I’ve ever frequented. Our private guides arrived, and we discussed our levels of skiing and what we wanted to do for the next three days. We were then taken through to the onsite ski fitting outbuilding where we were presented with our perfectly selected boots and skis….. job done, and I sipped my Negroni once more.

We gathered around the fireplace in the living room and were served canapés and champagne. We then went through to the incredibly beautiful but homely dining room. We indulged in a delicious four course meal accompanied by perfectly matched wines. Feeling wonderfully full and tired from the days travel everyone announced that they were turning in for the night ready for the big ski the next day.

Day Two

I began my day by taking my flat white out on to the balcony and snuggling down on a sheepskin blanket. I pulled a soft merino wool blanket over me whilst watching the village below me wake up. I re-joined the group for an incredible breakfast spread which included freshly baked pastries, hot cakes with maple syrup and freshly prepared fruit and juices. The guides then entered the room to announce our plan for the day and to say that the skis were all on board the van.

We skied for most of the morning with not even a coffee break (most unlike me) due to the amazing. We regrouped with the off piste team at our lunch spot Le Refuge de Solaise in Val d’Isere enjoying a hearty Alpine lunch and plenty of chat from our day so far. We skied for the rest of the afternoon and agreed that a hot tub was definitely in order…maybe with a glass of bubbles?

We had just about enough time to have a rejuvenating soak in the outdoor hot tub, a quick change with appropriate footwear before setting off for a trek to the famous Alpage for our secret dinner destination. We all chatted and walked until we were met by the sight of lit torches and our hosts Tommy and Valentine who were already waiting for us with champagne “on snow” and canapés fit for kings. This was then followed by stepping into the Alpage itself where a fire was lit and we gathered round on comfy sofas and indulged in Fondue. Just when we thought we couldn’t fit any more surprises in let alone food we were escorted down by a step ladder to a candlelit kitchen dining area and we were served another delicious two course meal which had all been lovingly prepared on a gas stove and over charcoal.

After a quick Genepi we wrapped up warm and made our way back to Chalet Hibou for a quick night cap and rest for the day ahead.

Day Three

Another day of clear skies but high winds which sadly meant we were unable to Heli ski however we were still determined to ski over to Italy for a quick Bombadino and maybe a plate of pasta if we were lucky. With ourYeti coffee cups refilled, we headed off from La Rosière and skied our way over to a little restaurant in La Thuile for a hot drink. As the weather was closing in we headed back to France and …yes more food!

We ended the day by enjoying the chalet and the spa facilities. I snuck over to Chalet Pellerin which boasted a hydro pool with views, I even eyed up the hydro bike before thinking better of it but had a relaxing steam and sauna and then went back to Chalet Hibou for a change and last drink in the Après bar with our guides to bid them farewell.

As I packed up my bags the next morning after another dreamy night buried in my Frettebed linen I reflected on the trip. If you are looking for something really special that focuses on experiences outside of just skiing, then the concept of Chalet Hibou and Pellerin’s is for you as their mission is to custom make powerful experiences and memories.

For more information and prices please contact a member of the Kaluma team who will be happy to tell you more.

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